cfl rules book 2008

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CFL Official Playing Rules 2008

THE OFFICIAL PLAYING RULESFOR THE

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE

2008


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Canadian Football League Directory --------------------------------------------------------- 4

CFL Rules Committee ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5CFL Ofciating Department -------------------------------------------------------------------- 5

CFL On-Field Ofcials---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6CFL Tie-Breaking Procedure -------------------------------------------------------------------- 7

Legend Of Abbreviations ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7

Plan Of The Playing Field ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8Summary Of Penalties --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 92008 CFL Rule Changes ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 10

RULE 1 CONDUCT OF THE GAME -------------------------------------------- 11-24

Section 1 The Field -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11Section 2 The Ball -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12

Section 3 Possession ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 12Section 4 Dead Ball ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12

Section 5 Teams ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13Section 6 Team Captains----------------------------------------------------------------- 13

Section 7 Starting & Timing -------------------------------------------------------------- 14Section 8 Tie Game ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17

Section 9 Out Of Bounds ----------------------------------------------------------------- 18Section 10 Playing Uniforms -------------------------------------------------------------- 19

Section 11 Team Personnel --------------------------------------------------------------- 22Section 12 Other Personnel --------------------------------------------------------------- 23

RULE 2 OFFICIALS ----------------------------------------------------------------- 25-26

Section 1 Designation Of Ofcials------------------------------------------------------ 25Section 2 Jurisdiction & Duties Of Ofcials------------------------------------------ 25

RULE 3 SCORING ------------------------------------------------------------------- 27-29

Section 1 Table Of Scores ---------------------------------------------------------------- 27Section 2 Denitions----------------------------------------------------------------------- 27

Section 3 Terminating A Play In Goal -------------------------------------------------- 29

Section 4 Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------------------ 29

RULE 4 SCRIMMAGE -------------------------------------------------------------- 30-36

Section 1 Denitions----------------------------------------------------------------------- 30Section 2 Method Of Scrimmage ------------------------------------------------------- 30

Section 3 Interference --------------------------------------------------------------------- 32Section 4 Placement Of The Ball ------------------------------------------------------- 33

Section 5 Player Restrictions ------------------------------------------------------------ 33Section 6 Series Of Downs --------------------------------------------------------------- 35

RULE 5 KICKING--------------------------------------------------------------------- 37-43

Section 1 Denitions----------------------------------------------------------------------- 37Section 2 Kickoff ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 38

Section 3 Blocked Kick -------------------------------------------------------------------- 40Section 4 Kick From Scrimmage & Open-Field Kick ------------------------------- 40

RULE 6 PASSING -------------------------------------------------------------------- 44-49

Section 1 Lateral Or Onside Pass ------------------------------------------------------ 44Section 2 Handoff Pass ------------------------------------------------------------------- 44

Section 3 Offside Pass -------------------------------------------------------------------- 44Section 4 Forward Pass ------------------------------------------------------------------- 45

RULE 7 FOULS & PENALTIES--------------------------------------------------- 50-55

Section 1 Illegal Tactics ------------------------------------------------------------------- 50Section 2 Major Fouls --------------------------------------------------------------------- 51

Section 3 Disqualication----------------------------------------------------------------- 54Section 4 Objectionable Conduct ------------------------------------------------------- 54

RULE 8 APPLICATION OF PENALTIES --------------------------------------- 56-60

Section 1 Denitions----------------------------------------------------------------------- 56Section 2 Fouls After Legal Gains ------------------------------------------------------ 56

Section 3 Double & Dual Fouls ---------------------------------------------------------- 56Section 4 Restrictions Near A Goal Line ---------------------------------------------- 58

Section 5 Foul On Convert --------------------------------------------------------------- 59Section 6 Foul In Goal --------------------------------------------------------------------- 59

Section 7 Fouls Which Occur on the Last Play of a Quarter --------------------- 60

RULE 9 INTERFERENCE ---------------------------------------------------------- 61-62Section 1 Denition------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61

Section 2 Interference On Scrimmage Plays ---------------------------------------- 61Section 3 Interference After Gaining Possession Without Scrimmage -------- 62

Section 4 Interference on Loose Ball -------------------------------------------------- 62

REFEREES SIGNALS -------------------------------------------------------------------- 63-67

INSTANT REPLAY -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 68-77

STATISTICAL SCORING RULES ------------------------------------------------------- 77-88

INDEX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------- 89-94

Cover Design by Barnstorm Creative Group Inc.

Cover Photo by Jimmy JeongPrinted by Proof Graphics Inc.

Content compiled and entered by Darren Hackwood and Josh OubadiaSpecial thanks to George Black, Dave Yule and Andre Proulx

The CFL Ofcial Rule Book is published annually by the Canadian Football League.

Any inquiries regarding the CFL Ofcial Playing Rules may be directed to GeorgeBlack at [email protected].

TABLE OF CONTENTS


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50 Wellington Street EastThird Floor

Toronto, Ontario, CanadaM5E 1C8

Phone: (416) 322-9650Fax: (416) 322-9651

www.CFL.cawww.LCF.ca

Commissioners OfceCommissioner Mark Cohon

Chief Operating Ofcer Michael CopelandExecutive Assistant Sue Bolender

Business OperationsDirector, Finance & Administration Doug Allison

Director, Salary Expenditure Reporting Trevor HardyFinancial Accountant Nora Rigodon

Ofce Manager Kelley AinleyOfce Manager Shani Jones

Football OperationsDirector, Football Operations Kevin McDonald

Director, Ofciating Tom HigginsSenior Advisor, Football Operations George Black

Manager, Player Personnel Ryan JanzenManager, Football Operations Josh Oubadia

Broadcasting & Media AssetsVice-President, Broadcasting & Media Assets Chris McCracken

Manager, Technology Chris SonnemannCoordinator, Broadcasting & Media Assets Chris Gallipeau

Web Producer, Media Assets Sean BellPartnerships

Senior Director, Partnerships Gavin RothManager, Partnerships Kent Heggie

Manager, Partnerships Brian LevineAccount Manager, Partnerships Kayla Greenwald

Account Manager, Partnerships Manpreet PandhaMarketing & Events

Vice-President, Marketing & Events Rob AssimakopoulosSenior Director, Marketing & Properties Jamie Nishino

Manager, Marketing Lisa Nevar-LandsmannManager, Team Services K.J. Robinson

Manager, Events Jamie SeguinCommunications

Vice-President, Communications Matt MaychakManager, Communications Jamie Dykstra

Online Editor, LCF.ca Olivier Poulin

CFL RULES COMMITTEE

CFL RULES COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON:

Mark Cohon Commissioner

VOTING MEMBERS:Marc Trestman Montreal Alouettes

Adam Rita Toronto ArgonautsScott Mitchell Hamilton Tiger-Cats

Doug Berry Winnipeg Blue BombersJim Hopson Saskatchewan Roughriders

John Hufnagel Calgary StampedersDanny Maciocia Edmonton Eskimos

Wally Buono B.C. LionsKevin McDonald Director, Football Operations, CFL

Bud Steen President, CPFOAJeff Pilon CFLPA

DIRECTOR, OFFICIATINGTom Higgins Toronto, ON

SENIOR ADVISOR, FOOTBALL OPERATIONS

George Black Toronto, ON

MANAGER, FOOTBALL OPERATIONSJosh Oubadia Toronto, ON

CFL OFFICIATING SUPERVISORS & EVALUATORS

Jacques Dcarie Montral, QCKen Green Toronto, ON

Turk Trtany Hamilton, ONArt McAvoy Winnipeg, MB

Ken Picot Regina, SKBill Wright Edmonton, AB

Larry Rohan Vancouver, BCDave Yule Nanaimo, BC

CFL RULES COMMITTEECFL RULES COMMITTEE

CFL OFFICIATING DEPARTMENT

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE


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NAME ------------------------- NO ---------POSITION -------------------------- RESIDENCE

Carey Anderson ------------ 42 ---------- Back Judge --------------------------Langley, BC

Ian Bain----------------------- 36 ----------Side Judge --------------------------- Calgary, ABDarryl Baron ----------------- 49 ---------- Referee/Field Judge -----Sherwood Park, AB

Ron Barss-------------------- 25 ---------- Umpire---------------------------------Regina, SKAl Bradbury ------------------ 72 ---------- Head Linesman ------------------ Winnipeg, MB

Heinz Brademann--------- 40 ---------- Back Judge ----------------Sherwood Park, ABLarry Butler ------------------ 59 ---------- Side Judge -----------------Sherwood Park, AB

Don Carmichael ------------ 21 ---------- Back Judge -----------------------Stouffville, ONMarty Carreau -------------- 57 ----------Line Judge --------------------------- Ottawa, ON

Henry Chiu------------------- 71 ----------Line Judge -------------------------------Ajax, ONBrian Chrupalo-------------- 73 ---------- Back Judge ----------------------- Winnipeg, MB

Murray Clarke --------------- 22 ---------- Referee -------------------------------Victoria, BCDon Cousens --------------- 35 ---------- Head Linesman -------------- Georgetown, ON

Steve Dolyniuk-------------- 56 ----------Field Judge ----------------------- Winnipeg, MBDon Ellis ---------------------- 70 ---------- Back Judge -------------------- Newmarket, ON

Dave Foxcroft--------------- 30 ---------- Head Linesman ----------------- Burlington, ONBill Hagans ------------------ 24 ----------Umpire------------------------ Scarborough, ON

Jeff Harbin ------------------- 27 ---------- Side Judge ---------------------------Toronto, ON

Dave Hawkshaw ----------- 23 ---------- Line Judge ---------------North Vancouver, BCRob Hill ----------------------- 63 ---------- Head Linesman ------------------Edmonton, ABDave Hutton ----------------- 41 ---------- Umpire---------------------------- Burlington, ON

John Ireland ----------------- 62 ----------Referee --------------------------- Townsend, ONGlen Johnson --------------- 32 ----------Referee --------------------------- Etobicoke, ON

Shawn Kerr ------------------ 61 ---------- Side Judge --------------------------- Calgary, ABJim Koshman --------------- 45 ----------Umpire------------------------------- Okotoks, AB

Tim Kroeker ----------------- 74 ----------Line Judge -----------------------Saskatoon, SKKen Lazaruk----------------- 53 ----------Referee ---------------------------- Winnipeg, MB

Jason Maggio --------------- 37 ---------- Side Judge ----------------------- Burlington, ONBen Major -------------------- 31 ---------- Umpire----------------------------- Ile Perrot, QC

Al McColman ---------------- 54 ---------- Field Judge ------------------------Hamilton, ONRitchie Miller ---------------- 34 ----------Line Judge ------------------------ Winnipeg, MB

Kim Murphy------------------ 48 ----------Referee/Field Judge ---------- Beamsville, ONJocelyn Paul----------------- 47 ----------Line Judge ------------------------St. Agapit, QC

Michel Pinsonneault ------- 33 ---------- Head Linesman ------------- Chateauguay, QCAndre Proulx---------------- 28 ---------- Referee --------------------------St. Charles, QC

Bob Reddekopp------------ 39 ----------Umpire-------------------------------- Calgary, ABRoss Saunders ------------- 67 ---------- Side Judge --------------------------- Ottawa, ON

Rob Skaggs ----------------- 46 ----------Field Judge -----------------------Edmonton, ABBud Steen-------------------- 66 ---------- Referee ----------------------------Edmonton, AB

Bryan Taylor ----------------- 51 ---------- Field Judge -------------------------Welland, ONTom Vallesi ------------------ 60 ---------- Back Judge ------------------------Hamilton, ON

Boris Velcic ------------------ 52 ---------- Head Linesman --------------------- Calgary, AB

RETIRED NUMBERS

26 - Don Barker16 - Ross Perrier38 - Lorne Woods

CFL TIE-BREAKING PROCEDURE

When two or more member Clubs are tied in the nal Division standings at theconclusion of the regular season schedule, preferential ranking for playoff purposesshall be determined on the basis of the following priorities and shall be awarded tothe club that: a) has won the greater number of games played against all member Clubs of the

League or, b) has won the greater number of games played against the other tied Club(s)or, c) has scored the higher net aggregate of points (i.e. points scored for less pointsscored against) in games played against the other tied Club(s) or, d) has scored the higher net quotient of points (i.e. points scored for divided bypoints scored against) in games played against the other tied Clubs(s) or, e) has won the greater number of games (or percentage of games) played againstall member Clubs of the Division or, f) has scored the higher net aggregate of points in games played against allmember Clubs of the Division or, g) has scored the higher net quotient of points in games played against all memberClubs of the Division or, h) has scored the higher net aggregate of points in games played against all

member Clubs of the League or, i) has scored the higher net quotient of points in games played against all memberClubs of the League or, j) has won a coin toss against the other tied club.

LEGEND OF ABBREVIATIONS

AFD Automatic First Down L25 Loss of 25 yardsAR Approved Ruling LB Loss of Ball1D First Down LD Loss of Down

12D First or Second Down LS Line of Scrimmage3D Third Down PBD Point Ball DeadTeam A Team putting ball into play PBH Point Ball HeldTeam B Other Team PF Point of FoulDR Down Repeated PLS Point of Last ScrimmageL5 Loss of 5 yards PPG Point Possession GainedL10 Loss of 10 yards YG Yards GainedL15 Loss of 15 yards YNG Yards Not Gained

CFL ON-FIELD OFFICIALS


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SUMMARY OF PENALTIES

5-YARD PENALTIESIllegal Handoff Pass Kickoff Out Of BoundsIllegal Procedure PyramidingOffside Time CountNo Yards

10-YARD PENALTIESContacting the Kicker Objectionable Conduct *Delay Of Game HoldingPass Interference Illegal BlockIllegal Contact On A Receiver Second Forward Pass On A PlayIllegal Participation Taunting *Sleeper Play Too Many PlayersIllegal Substitution TrippingIneligible Receiver Use Of An Illegal SubstanceLate Start Unauthorized Person On FieldPunt Out Of Bounds In Flight

15-YARD PENALTIES*Chop Block Hazardous Equipment

Clipping Piling OnCrackback Block Roughing The PasserCut Block Roughing The KickerFace Masking Unnecessary RoughnessNo Yards

25-YARD PENALTIES*Illegal Deployment Of Rough PlayDesignated Quarterback Or Objectionable Conduct PhysicalDesignated Import Abuse of OfcialSpitting

DISQUALIFICATION*Hazardous Equipment Rough PlayExcessive Objectionable Conduct Objectionable Conduct PhysicalSpitting Abuse of Ofcial

AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWNPass Interference Unnecessary RoughnessRough Play Illegal Interference On Loose Ball

LOSS OF DOWNTime Count Intentional Grounding(in last 3 Minutes of a Half,except on 3rd down)

* NOTE: The penalty shall be applied in addition to any yardage gained or scoremade.

PLAN OF THE PLAYING FIELD

PLAN OF THE PLAYING FIELD

DEADLINE

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

55

50

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

GOAL LINE

FIELD

OFPLAY

GOAL AREA

24 YDS

110YARDS

20YARDS

65 YARDS

20YARDS

GOAL LINE

DEADLINE

40

10

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2008 CFL RULE CHANGES

1) Sentence added to the following sections: Rule 4, Section 3, Article 1 - Denition of Interference Rule 9, Section 1 - Denition of Interference

Blocking is identied as the act of creating interference with contact.

2) Paragraph added to the following sections: Rule 4, Section 5, Article 3 - Identication & Positions Rule 6, Section 4, Article 4 - Eligibility Of Receivers

A maximum of 2 players wearing an ineligible number (50 69) will be allowedto line up in an eligible position as an end or in the backeld after reportingto the referee prior to a scrimmage play. The referee will inform the opposingteam and all ofcials of the player number and position he will be playing.

3) Sentence added to the following section: Rule 6, Section 4, Article 1 - Denition of a forward pass

A legal forward pass is thrown by any Team A player from a point behind the scrimmage

line, towards the opponents Dead Line, to any eligible receiver or receivers. Theball shall not touch the ground, any part of the goal post assembly, an ofcial or anyother object. The ball is considered to be in the possession of Team A until the passis ruled completed or incomplete. The passing motion begins when the passershand, with the ball in possession, begins moving forward.

4) Paragraph added to the following section: Rule 7, Section 2, Article 3 - Unnecessary Roughness

(o)Unnecessary physical contact, including but not limited to, running into,diving into, cut blocking or throwing the body on a player who is: i) out of play, or ii) should not have reasonably anticipated such contact by an opponent,

before or after the ball is dead; throwing a ball carrier to the ground after theball is dead.

RULE 1 CONDUCT OF THE GAME

SECTION 1 THE FIELDArticle 1 Regulation FieldsThe eld shall be 110 yards long by 65 yards wide. It shall be distinctly marked asindicated herein: The lines marking the sides of the eld shall be named Sidelines. The lines marking the ends of the eld shall be named Goal Lines.

The area bounded by these two sets of lines shall be called the Field of Play. Twenty yards behind each Goal Line, and parallel to it, shall be marked a linenamed the Dead Line. The Sidelines extended from Goal Line to Dead Line shall be named theSidelines in Goal. The area bounded by the Goal Line, the Dead Line and the Sidelines in Goalshall be named the Goal Area. The bounds shall be dened as the inside of the Sidelines, Sidelines in Goaland Dead Lines. The Field of Play shall be marked every 5 yards with lines extending fromSideline to Sideline and parallel to the Goal Lines. Twenty-four yards in from each Sideline each 5-yard stripe shall be marked bya short cross stripe parallel to the Sidelines (Hash Marks). Markers shall be placed opposite each 5-yard line from the Goal Line, indicating

the distance of each such line from the Goal Line toward the centre of the eld. The four intersections of Goal Lines and Sidelines and the four intersections ofDead Lines and Sidelines in Goal shall be indicated by exible markers that must beplaced so that they are not touching the surface of the playing eld. Vertical posts (goal posts) shall be placed and centred on each Goal Line. Thedistance between the posts shall be 18 feet 6 inches. The goal posts shall extend40 feet above ground level and shall be joined by a crossbar parallel to the ground ata height of 10 feet. The diameter of each post above the crossbar shall be not lessthan 3 inches or greater than 4 inches. At the extreme top of each post, there shall be attached a coloured ribbon 4inches wide and 42 inches long. A wishbone type or single-shaft goal post assemblymay be used, provided that it complies with the above standards and the base of theassembly is not further than 75 inches from the Goal Line.

Article 2 Fields Less Than Regulation SizeIf the regulation length of a eld is not available because of a fence, a running trackor any other object, a clear line of demarcation shall be established at least one foottoward the playing surface from such fence, track or object.

A line shall be painted on the playing surface and shall be considered as the boundaryline. A player who touches this line, the surface outside the line or any object outsidethe line shall be ruled as having gone Out of Bounds.


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SECTION 2 THE BALLThe game is played with a ball made of Wilson Exclusive Gameball Leather in fourpanels that shall be inated to a pressure not less than 12 1/2 psi nor greater than13 1/2 psi. The circumference of the long axis shall be not less than 27 inches norgreater than 28 1/4 inches. The circumference of the girth or short axis shall be notless than 20 7/8 inches nor greater than 21 1/8 inches. The length of the long axisshall be not less than 11 inches nor greater than 11 1/4 inches. The total weight ofthe ball shall not be less than 14 ounces nor greater than 15 ounces. The exposedlaces shall be not more than 4 3/8 inches in length and 1 1/8 inches in width.

The ball shall be painted with 1-inch white stripes around the short axis, commencing3 inches away from the point of greatest circumference of the short axis.

A minimum of seven balls shall be used in a game and changed at the discretion ofthe Referee. The balls shall be kept clean and in playable condition.

The ofcial football for a Canadian Football League game shall be the Wilson CFLOfcial Game Ball, which shall be inscribed with the signature of the Commissioner.

SECTION 3 POSSESSIONPossession means having the ball rmly held in hand or hands, arm or arms, leg orlegs, or under the body.

When players of the opposite teams have possession of the ball, it shall belong to theplayer who rst gained possession and who has not lost possession.

If players of both teams legally gain possession of the ball simultaneously, it shallbelong to the team that last previously had possession.

A ball not in possession of a player is still in play. A ball shall be considered to havebeen fumbled if the player last in possession has lost control of it.

If a kicked ball other than a kickoff is legally touched by a player of either team, suchtouching shall be deemed to be possession.

SECTION 4 DEAD BALL

The ball is dead: Whenever a eld ofcial blows the whistle When an ofcial has signalled a score When the ball goes Out of Bounds When a forward pass is declared incomplete When a kicked ball strikes the opponents goal post assembly in ight, withoutrst touching the ground, a player or an ofcial When the ball carrier is tackled and the forward progress has been halted(tackling is dened as the act of grasping or encircling a ball carrier with hands andarms) When the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage is rmly in the grasp andcontrol of a tackler to the extent that the ball cannot be thrown

When a ball carrier is tackled and driven back towards the ball carriers own GoalLine, an ofcial must assume that an attempt was being made to advance theball and that only the actual contact with an opponent prevented such advance.Therefore, the most forward point of advance shall be considered the point wherethe ball became dead When the ball carrier is contacted by an opponent and loses balance so that aportion of the body, other than hands or feet touches the ground, the ball shall bedead at the point where it was held when touching the ground, or the point where the

ball was held when contacted, whichever is the furthest point of advance When the quarterback, in possession of the ball, intentionally kneels on theground during the last three minutes of a half When the quarterback, in possession of the ball, dives in a feet rst slidingmotion, the ball shall be declared dead at the point it was held when another part ofthe quarterbacks body, other than hands or feet, touch the ground When a player, having possession of the ball in own Goal Area, intentionallykneels on the ground When a ball carrier is on the ground and, in the judgment of the ofcial, is notattempting to advance the ball, the ofcial shall immediately declare the ball dead.

NOTES: A ball lying on the ground and not in possession of a player is not dead. A ball striking an ofcial is not dead except on a forward pass.

SECTION 5 TEAMSFor reference hereinafter, the team that puts the ball in play shall be identied asTeam A and the other team shall be named Team B. The game is played by teamsof 12 players.

SECTION 6 TEAM CAPTAINSAt all times, each team must have on the eld a player designated as captain, andso identied to the Referee.The captain shall be the sole communicator between the team and the ofcials (throughthe Referee) and may appeal to the Referee only on questions of interpretation andapplication of rules. Such consultations should be held apart from other players onthe eld.

The captain may request the Referee to call in the yardsticks to determine whether a

rst down has been made or how much distance is required. If in the judgment of theReferee, the position of the ball is within one yard of the rst down marker, time outshall be signalled and a measure called for. Otherwise, the request shall be deniedand play resumed.

The Referees decision cannot be disputed. A captain is entitled to an explanationof any decision but no prolonged argument is to be allowed. When the yardsticksare called in from the Sidelines to determine whether a rst down has been gained,the on-eld captain for each team shall be the only players permitted in the vicinityof the measurement.

In case of a foul, the captain of the non-offending team shall be given the choice ofthe penalty or the option provided.


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SECTION 7 STARTING & TIMINGArticle 1 StartingThe game shall start promptly at the time prescribed by the Commissioner. If theteam is late appearing on the eld at the start of the rst or third periods, they will bepenalized.

PENALTY: L10

At the start of the game, the captains of both teams shall meet the Referee at centreeld. The Referee shall toss a coin with the visiting team captain making the call.The captain of the team winning the coin toss shall declare whether to have rstchoice at the start of the rst or second half.

The captain of team having rst choice at the start of the rst half shall choosebetween: (a) kicking off or receiving the kickoff or, (b) which end of the eld to defend.

The captain of the other team shall have rst choice at the start of the secondhalf, when both captains shall again meet the Referee at centre eld to make theirchoices.

Article 2 Playing & Rest PeriodsThe length of game shall be 60 minutes of actual playing time, divided into fourperiods of 15 minutes each. The scoreboard clock shall be the ofcial time for thegame and shall be operated under the direction and control of the Timekeeper. (SeeRule 2, Section 2, Article 10).Goals shall be changed at the end of the rst and third periods. At the start of thesecond and fourth periods, the ball shall be put into play at a point correspondingexactly to the point at the other end of the eld where the ball became dead at theend of the previous period. It shall be put into play in exactly the same manner as ifplay had not been interrupted.

The kickoff to start the second half shall take place at exactly 14 minutes after theconclusion of the rst half and a team shall be subject to penalty if the players are not

lined up on the eld ready to start the second half at that time.

PENALTY: L10

Article 3 Time OutTime shall start when the ball is touched following the kickoff at the start of a half,or after a scoring play, and shall continue until the ball is ruled dead and an ofcialsignals to the timekeeper that time shall stop for any of the following reasons: When a score has been made When the ball goes Out of Bounds When a forward pass is incomplete For the application of penalties For player substitution For delay caused by player injury

When time expires at the end of each period

When the ball becomes dead after the three-minute warning has been given inany half

When a player requests a team timeout For a convert attempt during the last three minutes of a half When the Referee deems it necessary to suspend play.

If in any period the ball becomes dead with only a short period of time remaining, theteam in possession shall be entitled to one complete play even though that play may

extend beyond the normal termination of that period.

If a touchdown is scored on the last play of a period, the period shall be extended toinclude the convert attempt.

Article 4 Time InAfter a time out for any reason, time shall start again on the signal of the Referee forany of the following reasons: When the ball is touched following a kickoff When it is ready to be scrimmaged When it is snapped immediately after a time count foul When it is snapped on the play immediately following a time out due to crowdnoise When it is snapped following a team time out

When it is snapped after Team A creates two consecutive fouls prior to the ballbeing put legally into play prior to the last three minutes of any half When it is snapped on the play immediately following a kickoff or a kick fromscrimmage or an open-eld kick during the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a play during which possessionchanged in the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following an incomplete legal forward pass inthe last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a time out caused by the ball beingcarried Out of Bounds during the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a score during the last three minutesin any half When it is snapped immediately following the application of a penalty for afoul that occurs after the three-minute warning signal has been given in any half

however, the non-offending team may decline the penalty and permit time to resumeas though a foul had not occurred When it is snapped immediately following the application of dual penalties duringthe last three minutes of a half. When it is snapped after Team A commits an offensive foul prior to the snap,inside their own 25 yd line or on any convert attempt.

If, during the last three minutes of a half, an infraction is committed before the ballcan be snapped the non-offending team may: (a) accept the penalty, in which case time shall resume on the snap or, (b) decline the penalty and elect whether time shall resume on the snap or whenthe Referee declares the ball in play.

After a touchdown, time shall stop and shall resume when the Referee declares the

ball in play for a convert attempt, except during the last three minutes of a half, whentime shall resume when the ball is touched on the ensuing kickoff.


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Article 5 Team Time OutDuring a half, a team shall be permitted to call one time out, subject to thefollowing: (a) the time out may be requested by any player on the eld, or the Head Coach,and may be directed to any ofcial on the eld, (b) the time out shall be 30 seconds in duration, (c) the game time will resume on the snap.

Article 6 Instant Replay Review

An Instant Replay Review request, challenging the ruling on the eld, may only beinitiated by the Head Coach, who will throw a marker ag onto the eld, prior to theball being put next into play.

Each team will have the ability to execute two (2) challenges per game.

The rst challenge will have no impact on team time outs, regardless of the outcomeof the challenge.

A second challenge, if unsuccessful, will result in the loss of a team time out, eitherrst or second half.

In order to execute a second challenge, a team must have a team time outremaining.

If both rst half and second half team time outs have been used prior to any challenges,a team will continue to have the opportunity for one challenge.

Article 7 Ball In PlayThe ball shall be considered in play until an ofcial stops the game by sounding thewhistle.

The game shall not be stopped because of player injury until the ball is dead.

The Referee shall not stop the game to impose a penalty until the ball is dead.

Article 8 Delay Of GameThe game shall not be delayed except by permission of the Referee. Any unauthorized

delay shall be subject to penalty. (a) If the Referee nds it necessary to suspend play while a player in the game hasequipment repairs, that player shall be required to leave the game for a minimum ofthree plays. (b) If the Referee nds it necessary to suspend play while an injured player receivesmedical attention on the eld, that player shall be required to leave the game for aminimum of three plays, except when the injury had occurred as a direct result of aninfraction for which the opponent was penalized, in which event the Referee maywaive the requirement for the player to leave the game. (c) On a kickoff, Team A shall be required to kick the ball within 20 seconds ofnotication by the Referee that play is to commence. (d) If a Team B player interferes with the placement of the ball after it has beendeclared in play by the Referee, that team shall be penalized.

PENALTY: L10

Article 9 Time CountThe Referee shall allow Team A 20 seconds in which to put the bal l into play. If thestadium countdown clock is not in operation, the Referee shall be the sole judge asto when the time count shall commence, after allowing both teams reasonable timein which to line up after the preceding play.

PENALTY: L5 DR Yardage penalty may be declined.

NOTE: After the three-minute warning has been given in a half the penalty shall be

12D LD, 3D L10 DR.

NOTE: The penalty for a t ime count violation on a convert attempt shall be L5 DR atany time during the game.

NOTE: If in the opinion of the Referee, Team A is taking a deliberate third down timecount penalty, the Referee may order Team A to put the ball in play legally within 20seconds or forfeit possession to Team B.

Article 10 Crowd NoiseThe Team A captain may request the Referee to stop the game if excessive crowdnoise prevents Team A from putting the ball into play. The Referee may permit TeamA to return to its huddle. The Referee shall allow reasonable time but under nocircumstances shall the play be delayed more than three times.

In the event that the home team permits in its stadium the use of either electronicequipment or high volume loudspeakers when the visiting team is attempting to putthe ball in play, with the result that the game is delayed, the home team shall besubject to penalty for delay of game.

PENALTY: L10

Article 11 Ball In GoalThe ball is in goal if it is on or behind the Goal Line, even in the air.

SECTION 8 TIE GAMEIn the event that the score is tied at the end of the second half of a game, each teamwill be given the opportunity to score using the following procedure: The rst team, as determined by coin toss, shall scrimmage the ball at theopponents 35-yard line and may advance by consecutive series of downs until itmakes a score or loses possession. The second team will then scrimmage at the same 35-yard line and proceed asabove. If the score is still tied, the procedure shall be repeated at the opposite end of thestadium. A winner is determined only if both teams have had equal opportunities toscore. If a winner is not determined after two attempts the game will be declared a tie. If the game is a playoff or championship game and a winner must be determined,the same procedure shall continue until a winner is nally declared.


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SECTION 9 OUT OF BOUNDSArticle 1 DenitionsThe ball is Out of Bounds when it touches a Sideline, Sideline in Goal, Dead Line orthe ground or any other object on or beyond these lines. The ball is Out of Boundswhen a player in possession of the ball touches a Sideline, Sideline in Goal, DeadLine or the ground or any other object on or beyond these lines.

NOTE: The ball shall remain in play when it is knocked or batted back into the Fieldof Play by a player who is off the ground and who has not touched the ground or anyobject Out of Bounds, see Rule 1, Section 9, Article 3.

NOTE: If a player gains possession of the ball while off the ground in bounds and iscontacted by an opponent and lands Out of Bounds in possession of the ball, suchplayer shall retain possession.

NOTE: A player who gains possession of the ball near the Sideline and touches theground in bounds with the rst step shall retain possession even if the next step isOut of Bounds.

Article 2 Ball Kicked Out Of BoundsWhen the ball is kicked Out of Bounds in the Field of Play, it shall belong to the

opposite team, subject to the penalty applicable on a kickoff.

Article 3 Ball Fumbled Out Of BoundsWhen, on any play, the ball is fumbled Out of Bounds, or touches a player in the Fieldof Play and then goes Out of Bounds, it shall belong to the team that last touched theball in the Field of Play.

A team shall be entitled to possession when a player of the team, while off the ground,knocks or bats the ball directly Out of Bounds, provided he lands in bounds.

The ball shall next be scrimmaged: (a) at the point where the ball went Out of Bounds or, (b) at the point where the ball was last touched in the Field of Play, whichever pointis closer to the Goal Line of the team entitled to possession.

Article 4 Ball Going Into Opponents Goal AreaWhen a player directs the ball, other than by kicking, from the Field of Play over theopponents Goal Line and hence Out of Bounds in the Goal Area without the balltouching an opponent, it shall be ruled as a fumble Out of Bounds in the Field ofPlay, with the ball declared dead at the point where it was last touched in the Fieldof Play.

Article 5 Ball Going Into Own Goal AreaWhen a player fumbles or directs the ball from the Field of Play into his own GoalArea, where the ball goes Out of Bounds without possession being gained by eitherteam, a safety touch score shall be awarded.

Article 6 Ball Touched In Goal AreaWhen a player directs the ball other than by kicking, from the Field of Play over theopponents Goal Line where it is recovered by an opponent, or is touched by anopponent before going Out of Bounds in the Goal Area, there shall be no score andthe ball shall be awarded to the opponents team at its 25-yard line. If in attemptingto run the ball out of the Goal Area, the opponents team commits an infraction thepenalty shall be applied from the 25-yard line.

Article 7 Ball Fumbled Out Of Goal AreaWhen a team in its own Goal Area fumbles or directs the ball, other than by kicking,across the Goal Line and Out of Bounds in the Field of Play without touching anopponent, the non-offending team may:

(a) accept a two-point score if the offending team had previously directed the ballinto its own Goal Area or, (b) accept a one-point score if the non-offending team had kicked the ball into theGoal Area or, (c) decline the score and require the team entitled to possession to scrimmage theball 24 yards in from the point where the ball went Out of Bounds or, (d) if prior to the fumble or offside pass Out of Bounds, the players team hadgained possession in its Goal Area by intercepting a forward pass or recovering anopponents fumble from the Field of Play, it shall be awarded the ball at its 25-yardline without option.

Article 8 Illegal ParticipationA player of either team, who goes Out of Bounds, except as a result of bodily contact,must remain out of that play.

PENALTY: L10

If such player reaches back into or re-enters the eld of play and touches or recoversa loose ball:

PENALTY: LB PF

Article 9 Ball Kicked Out Of Bounds In Own Goal Area

When a team in its own Goal Area kicks the ball Out of Bounds in its own Goal Area,the ball shall be deemed to have become dead in the Goal Area and the opponentshall be awarded: (a) a single point if the ball had been kicked into the Goal Area by the opponentor, (b) a safety touch score if the ball had been kicked, passed or carried into the GoalArea by the team scored against.

If the team in its own Goal Area had gained possession through interception of aforward pass or recovery of an opponents fumble, there shall be no score and theteam shall take possession at its 25-yard line.

If, under similar circumstances, a team should kick the ball Out of Bounds in theopponents Goal Area without gaining possession, the play shall be ruled as though

the opponent had kicked the ball out of its own Goal Area.


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SECTION 10: PLAYING UNIFORMSArticle 1 EquipmentEquipment or apparel that, in the judgment of the Referee, may endanger or confuseopponents is illegal.

The use of metal or other hard objects including casts, guards and braces toprotect body parts, is permitted provided that such are appropriately covered on alledges and surfaces by foam rubber or similar material.

PENALTY: L10 PBD. The offending player shall be required to leave the game for aminimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the illegal equipmenthas been removed. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.

Article 2 HelmetsA player shall be required to wear a helmet when on the Field of Play and shall notvoluntarily remove it while the play is in progress.

The use of helmets or other objects to deceive opponents as to the whereabouts ofthe ball is prohibited.

PENALTY: L5

NOTE: See Rule 7, Section 2, Article 3 & Rule 7, Section 4.

Article 3 Numbering Of PlayersEach player shall be conspicuously numbered on the front and back of the jersey,and on the upper arms or shoulders. Such number must correspond with that listedwith the scorer. A player shall retain the same number throughout the game exceptwhen permission to change is given by the Referee. Such change shall be reportedto the scorer.

In the event that a Team A player is required to wear a different jersey number inorder to play at a different position, the jersey must be changed in the team bencharea. Under no circumstances shall the jersey be changed while the player is on theplaying eld.

PENALTY: The offending player shall be removed from the game until the properplaying number is determined. Substitution shall be allowed.

Article 4 Illegal SubstanceA player shall not be permitted to wear or apply or have applied on the uniform,equipment or body: (a) an adhesive substance, a rosin bag or tacky cloth that, in the sole judgmentof the Referee, has made the game ball unsuitable for play as a result of direct orindirect contact with that player, and/or, (b) a greasy substance that, in the sole judgment of the Referee, has the potentialto give that player an unfair advantage.

PENALTY: L10 PBD. The offending player shall be required to leave the game for aminimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the illegal substance

has been removed. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.

Article 5 Blood Hazards From Open WoundsIf a player has an open wound that, in the opinion of the Referee, is bleedingsignicantly, then that player will be required to leave the Field of Play to have thewound properly dressed by club medical staff. The player would be permitted to re-enter the Field of Play after receiving clearance from the Referee.

Article 6 Hazardous EquipmentA player shall not be permitted to wear unauthorized equipment (ex. baseball cleats,

track spikes or golf shoes) or equipment that has been deliberately altered sothat, in the sole judgment of the Referee, it has the potential to cause injury to anopponent.

PENALTY: L15 The offending player shall be disqualied from the game.

NOTE: If the infraction is detected during or following a play in which that playerparticipated, the Referee may apply the penalty at the point of origin of that play, orPBD.

Article 7 Dress CodeA team is required to dress in a professional manner and shall be subject to penaltyif a player fails to comply with the following requirements: (a) The team jersey shall be tucked inside the top of the pants and shall remain

tucked in throughout the game. If the jersey is pulled out during the game, the playershall be required to tuck it in during a break in the play. (b) Uniform stockings shall be worn in such manner that no part of the playersknee or leg is exposed. (c) Protective gear shall be worn underneath the team jersey, pants and stockings.When a short-sleeved jersey is worn, the color of protective gear on the elbow orlower arm shall be the same as one of the basic colors of the team. (d) The team uniform shall not be cut away or altered in any manner whatsoever. (e) White tape may be used on wrists and hands, but tape used on stockingsor any part of the uniform shall be the same color as the uniform or equipment itcovers. (f) Shoes of a standard football design, with appropriate football cleating, thathave not been altered, deliberately or otherwise, in any manner and judged suitableby the Referee for the playing surface, may be used. Sneaker type shoes with nocleating may also be used.

PENALTY: L10 PBD The offending player shall be required to leave the game fora minimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the dress codeviolation has been remedied. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.


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SECTION 11 TEAM PERSONNELArticle 1 Bench AreaThe team bench area shall be a rectangular area situated not closer to the Sidelinethan 6 feet and extending for a distance of 30 yards parallel to the Sideline. Duringa game, the area may be occupied only by substitute players in uniform and otheraccredited persons including coaches, doctors, trainers, equipment assistants andwater carriers. All such personnel are required to remain within the rectangular areawith the exception of the coaches, who may take positions between the bench area

and the Sideline. The coaches shall not be permitted on the playing eld at any timeduring the game, except with the permission of the Referee.

PENALTY: L10

Article 2 Ofcial Time OutWhen the Referee has called an ofcial time out, not more than one player of eachteam may proceed to the Sideline to talk with the coach.

PENALTY: L10

Article 3 Trainers & Injured PlayersDuring a stoppage in play for injury or other reason, not more than two representativesof each team, other than medical personnel, shall be allowed to enter the eld.

The Referee need not permit the attendants of both teams to enter the eld in caseof injury to a player of one team only and shall indicate such permission to theattendants of one or both teams.

When time out has been called for player injury or equipment repair, that player shallbe required to leave the game for a minimum of three plays, except when the injuryhad occurred as a result of an infraction for which the opponent was penalized.

PENALTY: L10 PLS DR or L10 PBD or option.

Article 4 Substitution ProcedureA substitute may enter the Field of Play at any time the ball is dead and only at thattime.

A substitute who enters the game and communicates with a team mate on the eldmust remain in the game for at least one play.A player leaving the game shall proceed directly to the Sideline on which theteam bench is located and, thence, outside the Field of Play to the team bench.

A team shall not be permitted to use player substitution as a means of deceiving theopponents.

A team that permits more than 12 players to participate in its huddle or formationbefore the ball is snapped shall be subject to a penalty for illegal substitution.

The side ofcials (Head Linesman and Line Judge) shall monitor the team bench ontheir sides of the eld and, when the ball becomes dead, shall observe that Sidelinefor possible substitutions. When Team A breaks the huddle, or if no huddle, and theReferee declares the ball in play, the side ofcials shall turn away from the Sidelinesand raise their arms to shoulder level. (Raising the gates.) Further substitutionshall not be permitted.

When, on a kicking play, Team A has only 11 players on the eld and the gates

have gone up, a player may enter the eld and participate in the play without beingpenalized for Illegal Substitution, if he is able to enter the close line play area andthen assume a position, inside or outside this area, prior to the snap.

PENALTY: L10

Article 5 Sleeper PlayA sleeper play is one in which Team A uses substitution procedures to disguise aplayers presence on the eld and eligibility as a potential pass receiver, and throwsa pass to that player.

Team A shall not use player substitution as a means of disguising a sleeper play. Iffollowing a substitution, a Team A player does not participate in the team huddle andtakes a position within 11 yards of the Sideline adjacent to the Team A bench area

when the ball is put into play, that player shall be deemed to be ineligible as a passreceiver.

PENALTY: L10

Article 6 Error In Number Of PlayersIf through error in substitution or otherwise, a team has more than 12 players on theeld, the offending team shall be penalized.

PENALTY: L10

SECTION 12 OTHER PERSONNELArticle 1 Team PersonnelIf a person entitled to be in a team bench area (i.e. a substitute player in uniform or

one of the other accredited persons) interferes with the play in progress, that teamshall be subject to penalty as follows: (a) If the opponent had possession of the ball, the Referee shall award an automatictouchdown to the opponent. (b) If the offending persons team had possession, it shall be penalized for illegalinterference (L10 PBH or PBD) while the downs shall continue without interruption. (c) If neither team had possession, the ball shall be awarded to the opponentat the point of recovery with a penalty of half the distance to the Goal Line and theopponent shall be permitted a series of three downs regardless of the time remainingin the half.

Furthermore, the offending person shall be disqualied from the game immediatelyand subject to disciplinary action by the Commissioner. There shall not be anyadditional yardage penalty by reason of the disqualication.


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Article 2 Other Than Team PersonnelIf a person other than one described in Article 1 should interfere with the play inprogress, the penalty shall be: (a) If such person interfered to the advantage of the team in possession, that teamshall be penalized for illegal interference at the point where the ball was held whenthe interference occurred. (b) If such person interfered to the advantage of the team not in possession, theteam in possession shall be awarded: (i) a touchdown score if, in the judgment of the Referee, a touchdown would

have been scored on the play or, (ii) a penalty of half the distance to the Goal Line from: 1. the point where the ball was held when the interference occurred or, 2. the point where the ball became dead or, 3. the point where the ball was put into play or the team gained possession,whichever is the greater advantage to the team in possession, plus a series of threedowns regardless of the time remaining in the half. (c) If such person interferes with the play when the ball is not in possession ofeither team, the Referee shall whistle the play dead immediately. The entire playshall be repeated at the point the ball was previously put into play, with the down,yardage, score and time remaining the same. (d) If such person interferes with a forward pass play in the Goal Area, the ballshall be awarded to: (i) Team A at the one-yard line if the interference was to the advantage of

Team B or, (ii) Team B at the 10-yard line if the interference was to the advantage ofTeam A.

NOTE: If the non-offending team is awarded a series of three downs with insufcienttime remaining, it shall be permitted a maximum of three plays from scrimmage.If that team should score or lose possession, the game will be terminated at theconclusion of that play.

RULE 2 - OFFICIALS

SECTION 1 DESIGNATION OF OFFICIALSArticle 1 Field Ofcials Article 2 Sideline Ofcials1. Referee Downsman2. Umpire Yardsmen3. Back Judge Timekeeper4. Side Judge Communication Coordinator

5. Field Judge Countdown Operator6. Head Linesman Scorer7. Line Judge Statistician

SECTION 2 JURISDICTION & DUTIES OF OFFICIALSArticle 1 GeneralAll eld ofcials are equally responsible for the conduct of the game and no agreementshall be undertaken that would prevent the calling of any foul, against either team,by an ofcial.Each eld ofcial shall be equipped with a whistle and a coloured marker to be usedto indicate a foul.The sounding of the whistle shall stop the game.The throwing of a marker indicates that a foul has been committed, but play shallcontinue until its termination.

The signal of time in shall be a clockwise sweep of the Referees arm from theoverhead position and the sounding of the Referees whistle.

Article 2 The RefereeThe Referee shall take primary charge of the game and shall: Guide and direct the efforts of the other ofcials Enforce the rules and apply penalties Adjudicate upon disputes or matters not provided for in the rules Take position behind Team A in order to observe that the ball is put into playlegally and thereafter judge its possession and progress Cover the actions of passers and kickers and the defensive actions ofopponents Cover lateral passes and onside kicks behind the line of scrimmage Be primarily responsible for marking balls Out of Bounds in ight In co-operation with the Head Linesman keep count of the downs and, Notify each team captain when three minutes remain to be played in each halfand furthermore may: o Overrule any other ofcial o Cause the removal of any Sideline ofcial and, if necessary, o Require the replacement of such Sideline ofcial

Article 3 The UmpireThe Umpire shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players on thescrimmage lines of both teams and shall take a position behind the defensive linemen(Team B).


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Article 4 The Back JudgeThe Back Judge shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players ofboth teams on Team Bs side of the line of scrimmage and shall be responsible forSideline violations downeld.

Article 5 The Side JudgeThe duties of the side judge shall be identical to those of the Back Judge.

Article 6 The Field JudgeThe Field Judge shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players ofboth teams on Team Bs side of the line of scrimmage and shall take a positiondowneld between the hash marks.

Article 7 The Head LinesmanThe Head Linesman shall supervise and control the Yardsmen and their actions inthe placement and movement of the yardsticks, under the direction of the Referee.He shall record the number of each down and assist the Referee in this respect andshall systematically check the Sideline for player substitutions and ensure that onlyapproved substitution procedures are used.

Article 8 The Line JudgeWith the exception of:

(a) the supervision and control of the Yardsmen, and, (b) the recording of downs,the jurisdiction and duties of the Line Judge are identical to those of the HeadLinesman.

Article 9 Downsman & YardsmenUnder the direction of the Head Linesman, the Downsman shall place a marker atthe forward point of gain or loss after each play and shall indicate the number of eachdown on the marker provided.Two Yardsmen shall function on one Sideline under the direction of the HeadLinesman. They shall remain outside the Field of Play unless called to assist inmeasuring for a possible rst down. They shall be equipped with two pickets,connected near the lower ends by a chain. The distance between these pickets shallmeasure 10 yards.A third Yardsman shall be used to hold a single picket on the opposite Sideline tomark the 10-yard objective line. However, such picket shall not be used to determinewhether a rst down has been gained.

Article 10 Timekeeper & ScorerPrior to the game, the Scorer shall be provided with a complete list of the eligiblecompeting players and the starting lineups, and shall keep a record of all scoringplays in the game.The Timekeeper shall keep the time according to Rule 1, Sections 7 and 8, and shallnotify the Head Linesman or Line Judge when three minutes remain in each half.If the scoreboard clock should fail to operate, the Timekeeper shall, prior to the lastminute of play in each quarter, take a position in order to be clearly visible to theReferee and at the commencement of the last minute of play, shall raise a ag andcontinue to hold it in a raised position until time has expired in that quarter.

SECTION 1 TABLE OF SCORESTouchdown 6 PointsSingle Point or Rouge 1 PointField Goals 3 PointsConvert 1 Point or 2 PointsSafety Touch 2 Points

The team scoring the majority of points shall be the winner.

SECTION 2 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 TouchdownA touchdown is scored when the ball is in possession of a player in the opponentsGoal Area, or when the ball in the possession of a player crosses or touches theplane of the opponents Goal Line. Should the ball subsequently be fumbled, orthe player in possession forced back into the Field of Play, the touchdown shallscore.

After a touchdown, the team scored against may kickoff from its own 35-yard line orrequire the scoring team to kickoff from its (scoring teams) 35-yard line.

Article 2 Field GoalA eld goal is scored by a drop kick or place kick (except on a kickoff) when the ball,after being kicked and without again touching the ground, goes over the cross barand between the goal posts (or goal posts produced) of the opponents goal.

The ball shall be dead immediately when it crosses the cross bar.

After a eld goal, the team scored against may kickoff or scrimmage the ball as rstdown at its own 35-yard line or require the scoring team to kickoff from its 35-yardline.

AR: Team A attempts a eld goal. After the ball is kicked and before crossing theline of scrimmage, it touches or is touched by a player of either team and thenproceeds through the uprights and over the crossbar in ight. RULING Field

Goal.

AR: Team A attempts a eld goal. After the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage,it touches or is touched by a Team B player before it proceeds through the uprightsand above the crossbar in ight. RULING Field Goal.

Article 3 Safety TouchA safety touch is scored when the ball becomes dead in the possession of a teamin its own Goal Area, or touches or crosses the Dead Line or a Sideline in Goal asa result of the ball having been carried, kicked, fumbled or otherwise directed fromthe Field of Play into the Goal Area by the team scored against, or as a direct resultof a kick from scrimmage having been blocked in the Field of Play or Goal Area.

RULE 3 - SCORING


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After a safety touch, the scoring team may elect to have the ball next put into playas follows: (a) By scrimmaging the ball at its own 35-yard line or, (b) By kicking off from its own 35-yard line or, (c) By requiring the team scored against to kickoff from its 35-yard line.

If while in the act of conceding a safety touch, a team deliberately, in the judgmentof the ofcial, commits a Holding infraction, the score shall count and the penalty

applied at the point where the ball is next put into play.

When a Rough Play or Unnecessary Roughness foul is committed on a play duringwhich a safety touch is scored by the non-offending team, the score shall be allowedand the penalty assessed from the point where the ball is next put in play.

Article 4 Single Point Or RougeIf the ball is kicked into the Goal Area by an opponent, a rouge is scored: (1) when the ball becomes dead in possession of a team in its own Goal Area or, (2) when the ball touches or crosses the Dead Line or a Sideline in Goal, andtouches the ground, a player or some object beyond these lines.

AR: Team A kicks to Team B. B1 attempting to catch the ball on Team Bs 3-yardline, fumbles it and is tackled with the ball in possession in the Team B Goal Area.

RULING Rouge (ball deemed to have been kicked into Goal Area by Team A).

AR: Team A kicks to Team B. B1 catches the ball in the Field of Play while movingtowards own Goal Line and, in the judgment of the ofcial, the momentum carries B1into own Goal Area. RULING Rouge (possession deemed to have been gained inthe Goal Area).

After a rouge, the team scored against shall next put the ball into play by a scrimmageas rst down at any point between the hash marks on its 35-yard line.

If the single point was scored as the result of an unsuccessful eld goal attempt, theteam scored against may elect to scrimmage the ball at any point between the hashmarks on its own 35-yard line or at the previous line of scrimmage.

NOTE: For the purposes of this Article, a drop kick or place kick shall, withoutexception, be deemed to be a eld goal attempt.

NOTE: If during a kickoff, the kicked ball proceeds through the Goal Area and acrossthe Dead Line or Sideline in Goal without being touched, there shall be no score andthe ball shall be awarded to the receiving team at any point between the hash markson its own 25-yard line.

Article 5 ConvertA team scoring a touchdown may attempt to add to its score by means of a scrimmageplay from any point between the hash marks on or outside the opponents ve-yardline, as follows:

1 point By kicking a eld goal or, 2 points By scoring a touchdown by means of a ball carrying or passing play.

The ball shall remain in play until a score is made or the play has been terminated.

If Team B legally gains possession during an unsuccessful convert attempt (i.e.interception of forward pass, recovery of fumble or blocked kick), it may score twopoints by advancing the ball across Team As Goal Line. If the play terminates withTeam B in possession in its own Goal Area or in the Field of Play, there shall be noscore.

If the play terminates with Team A legally in possession in Team Bs Goal Area, TeamA shall be awarded two points if the ball had been carried or passed across the line ofscrimmage, but no points if the ball had been kicked across the line of scrimmage.

NOTE: There shall be no convert attempt on the winning touchdown scored inovertime.

NOTE: For infraction on convert attempt, see Rule 8, Section 5.

SECTION 3 TERMINATING A PLAY IN GOALA player of the team in possession of the ball in its own Goal Area may terminate theplay by dropping to the ground on one knee. The ofcial shall immediately declarethe play dead.

SECTION 4 MISCELLANEOUSNo score can be made from a kickoff unless the ball, after it is kicked off, is touchedby a player of either team within bounds.


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NOTE: Where a violation under this Rule occurs before the ball has been snapped,the ofcials are empowered to stop the play and apply the penalty. Such penaltyshall apply without option; however, the yardage may be declined. For a violationduring the last three minutes of a half, see Rule 1, Section 7, Article 4.

SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 Line Of ScrimmageThe line of scrimmage is an imaginary line, extending from Sideline to Sideline,parallel to the Goal Line, and passing through the point of the ball farthest from TeamAs Goal Line.

Article 2 Line & BackeldPlayers of Team A who are within one yard of and on their own side of the line ofscrimmage and are formed in a single line when the ball is put in play, shall beconsidered scrimmage line, or line players. A player, whose head and shoulders arewithin one yard of the line of scrimmage, shall be deemed to be a line player.

A player of Team A is considered to be in the backeld if such player is clearly backof the line when the ball is put in play. This will also include the player occupying the

position of quarterback.

No player of Team A shall be in a position that will create doubt as to being on the lineor in the backeld, when the ball is put in play.

PENALTY: L5

Article 3 Scrimmage ZoneThe scrimmage zone is the area extending one yard on each side of the line ofscrimmage and from Sideline to Sideline.

Article 4 Defensive LineOn a play from scrimmage, players of Team B must line up at least one yard backof, and on their own side of the line of scrimmage until the ball is put in play. This

includes the player giving defensive signals.

PENALTY: L5

SECTION 2 METHOD OF SCRIMMAGEArticle 1 The CentreAt the commencement of a scrimmage play, one Team A player (the Centre) shalltake position facing the opponents Goal Line with the ball on the playing surfaceimmediately in front and shall put the ball in play by snapping it back between thelegs in one continuous motion to another Team A player behind the line of scrimmage.The ball must leave the hands of the Centre, who shall not touch the ball again untilit has been in the possession of another player.

NOTE: On a Team A kicking formation, the Centre shall be permitted to move thehead for the purpose of checking the position of an opponent prior to snapping theball.

Article 2 Illegal MovementTeam A shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offside if: (a) the quarterback makes a quick movement towards the centre position withoutthe ball being snapped immediately or,

(b) the quarterback, having assumed a stance with hands under the centre, bobsthe head, moves the shoulders or exes the knees in a jerking motion without the ballbeing snapped or, (c) the quarterback, having assumed a stance with hands under the centre, movesaway without the ball being snapped.

Team A shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offside if: (a) the centre fakes a snap, without snapping the ball or, (b) the centre, having assumed a stance holding the ball, bobs the head, movesthe shoulders or exes the knees without snapping the ball.PENALTY: L5

Either team shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offside

if a player makes a motion or voices a signal that, in the judgment of the ofcial, isintended to draw an opponent offside. This shall include a snap down into a two orthree point stance by an offensive lineman.

PENALTY: L5

Article 3 Offside At The Snap

Team A players must be completely behind the line of scrimmage, except that thehead, arms and hands of the centre may be in advance of the line of scrimmage.

PENALTY: L5

If a Team B player is offside on his own one-yard line.

PENALTY: Team A shall be awarded a rst down or score made.If a Team B player goes offside and contacts an opponent or breaks the plane ofthe line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped, the ofcials shall stop the playimmediately and award the penalty, subject to the right of Team A to decline theyardage penalty and order the same down to be repeated as though a foul had notoccurred. If the Team B player is within one yard of the line of scrimmage when theball is snapped, the play shall continue, subject to the penalty against Team B.

If a Team B player enters the neutral zone within one yard of the line of scrimmagecausing a Team A line player to move before the ball is snapped, Team B shall besubject to a penalty for offside.

RULE 4 - SCRIMMAGE


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If players of both teams are offside on the same play, the same down shall berepeated without penalty from the point of last scrimmage.

A player of either team who is offside and contacts an opponent, even thoughresuming an onside position prior to the snap, shall be penalized for being offside.

Team A may put the ball into play without waiting for Team B players to be onside,but an offside penalty cannot be claimed against Team B. Such an offside player

shall not interfere with the play in any manner.

PENALTY: L5

SECTION 3 INTERFERENCEArticle 1 General DenitionInterference takes place when a player obstructs, blocks, screens or chargestowards an opponent, with or without direct contact, in such a manner that preventsthe opponents approach to the ball carrier, potential ball carrier or the ball. Blockingis identied as the act of creating interference with contact.

Article 2 By Team A (a) On a play from scrimmage, a Team A player may interfere with an opponentfrom Dead Line to Dead Line commencing from the instant the ball is snapped,

except in the case of: (i) a play during which a forward pass is thrown across the line of scrimmageor, (ii) a play during which the ball is kicked across the line of scrimmage. (b) For interference on a forward pass play, see Rule 6, Section 4, Article 8. (c) On a kicking play, a Team A player may interfere with an opponent up to one

yard in advance of the line of scrimmage. (d) A Team A player may use hands, open or closed, and may thrust them forward tocontact an opponent, provided that the hands are kept inside the elbows and contactis made from the front or side of the opponent within the frame of the opponentsbody that is presented to the blocker. (e) Hands may not be thrust forward above the frame to contact the opponent onthe neck, face or head.

PENALTY: L10

Article 3 By Team B (a) On any play from scrimmage, a Team B player may use hands and arms toreach the ball carrier, but shall not hold or encircle any Team A player, other than theball carrier.

PENALTY: L10

(b) For interference on a forward pass play, see Rule 6, Section 4, Article 8(b). (c) For interference on a kicking play, see Rule 5, Section 4, Article 4.

Article 4 Illegal Block-Hands To The FaceNo player of either team may thrust his hands forward above the frame to contactthe opponent on the neck, face, head or facemask. This does not apply to a ballcarrier using a stiff arm or straight arm tactic where there is no grasping of theface mask.

PENALTY: L10

SECTION 4 PLACEMENT OF THE BALLArticle 1 After A ScoreWhen the ball is placed in play by the Referee after a scoring play, after the ball hasbeen declared dead in the end zone, or following the application of a penalty for afoul in goal or a foul on a convert, Team A may elect to scrimmage the ball at anypoint between the hash marks.

Article 2 Within 24 Yards Of A SidelineIf the ball becomes dead within 24 yards of either Sideline, or goes Out of Bounds, itshall next be scrimmaged 24 yards in from such Sideline at the yardage point whereit becomes dead.

Article 3 Within 1 Yard Of Goal LineIf Team A has possession of the ball within one yard of either Goal Line, it shall be

scrimmaged one yard out from such Goal Line.

Article 4 Within 15 Yards Of Own GoalWhen, on third down, Team A scrimmages on or within its own 15-yard line, Team Amay position the ball away from the goal posts towards the closest Sideline, but notcloser than 24 yards to such Sideline.

Article 5 Within 10 Yards Of Own GoalIf Team A is scrimmaging within 10 yards of its own Goal Line, it shall be permitted tohave the ball moved out to the nearest hash mark.

SECTION 5 PLAYER RESTRICTIONSArticle 1 Seven Players On LineAt the instant the ball is put in play, at least seven players of Team A must be within

one yard, and on their own side of the line of scrimmage. This does not include theplayer in the position usually occupied by the quarterback.

Conversely, Team A can never have more than ve players, including the quarterback,in backeld positions.

PENALTY: L5

Article 2 StanceNo line player of Team A, except the centre, having assumed a three-point or four-point stance, may legally move the head, body, arms, hand, legs or feet until the ballis snapped.

PENALTY: L5


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Article 3 Identication & PositionsOn all scrimmage plays at least ve line players, including the centre, shall be identiedas ineligible pass receivers and must be positioned in a continuous, unbroken line.In addition, one player at each end of the line shall be identied as an eligible passreceiver.

Any other Team A player is an eligible pass receiver, if so identied by playing numberand, at the snap of the ball, is occupying a backeld position at least one yard back

of the line of scrimmage.

NOTE: Team A Players shall be identied by numbering as follows:Eligible receivers will wear numbers from 0-49 and 70-00.Ineligible receivers will wear numbers from 50-69.

NOTE: Notwithstanding this article, a Team A player wearing an eligible receivernumber may enter the game at an ineligible receiver position under the followingcircumstances: (a) on a third down play or, (b) on a convert attempt or, (c) on a rst or second down kicking formation in the last minute of a quarter,provided that, prior to the game, Team A had declared to the Referee which eligiblynumbered players may be so deployed, in which event, any such declared player

shall not be eligible as a pass receiver, regardless of the position occupied on thatplay.

A maximum of 2 players wearing an ineligible number (50 69) will be allowedto line up in an eligible position as an end or in the backeld after reportingto the referee prior to a scrimmage play. The referee will inform the opposingteam and all ofcials of the player number and position he will be playing.

PENALTY: L5

Article 4 Linemen In MotionNo player of Team A, who is within one yard of the line of scrimmage, shall be movingtowards the opponents Goal Line when the ball is put in play.

All Team A players positioned in the scrimmage zone from offensive tackle to offensivetackle inclusive, or having assumed a three-point or four-point stance within one yardof the line of scrimmage, shall be required to remain motionless for at least onesecond immediately prior to the snap of the ball.

EXCEPTION: Rule 6, Section 4, Article 4, Note 4

Article 5 Designated QuarterbackPrior to the game, a team is required to designate three players who shall be permittedto alternate for each other during the game at the quarterback position exclusively.Not more than one such player may be in the game at any time and none of the threecan enter the game as a member of Team B.

A player shall be deemed to be playing at the Team A quarterback position if, at thesnap of the ball, that player is in position to receive the ball directly from the centre.

If a designated quarterback participates in the game at another position:


NOTE: For the purposes of this Article 5, the duties of the quarterback position mayinclude punting, place kicking and kicking off. If a team designates three quarterbacksfor a game, the player designated as the third quarterback shall not be eligible forkicking duties.

Article 6 Designated ImportIf a team is using its full complement of import players, it shall, prior to the game,designate three import players as special teams players, who shall be permitted toenter the game at another position, only on the understanding that another import

player is required to leave the game for that play. Such player may enter the gameon an unrestricted basis, only if another import player is removed for the balance ofthe game.

If a designated import participates in the game illegally:


SECTION 6 SERIES OF DOWNSArticle 1 10 Yards On Three DownsTeam A shall have three downs in which to gain the required distance of 10 yards. Adown may be repeated following the application of a penalty against either team. If ina series of three downs, Team A has not gained the required 10 yards, the ball shallbe awarded to the opponents as rst down at the point where the ball becomes dead.

If the required 10 yards are gained, a new series of downs begins.

Article 2 Consecutive DownsConsecutive shall mean possession in a continuous series of downs in which theball is in possession of the one team.


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Article 3 Continuity Of DownsThe continuity of downs is interrupted: (a) When the ball, having been kicked, other than dribbled, crosses the line ofscrimmage. (b) When on a scrimmage play, the ball is dribbled by Team B. (c) When the ball denitely passes into possession of opponents. Touching theball by opponents is not possession. (d) When the required distance is gained.

(e) When the ball is kicked Out of Bounds.

Article 4 Position Of Ball In MeasuringIn measuring for downs, the forward point of the ball, and not its centre, shall be thedetermining point and the ball, before measuring, shall be rotated so that its longaxis is parallel to the Sidelines. A touchdown cannot be awarded as a result of suchrotation.

NOTE: When Team A has failed to gain the distance required for a rst down andthe ball is awarded to Team B, the Referee shall reverse the ball in order to have theforward point facing in the opposite direction.

SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 Kicked BallA kicked ball is one struck by a players foot or leg below the knee.

NOTE: If the ball accidentally strikes a players leg or foot, it shall not be ruled as akicked ball.

Article 2 Drop KickA drop kick is made by dropping the ball from the hands and kicking it with the footjust as it rises from the ground.

Article 3 Place KickA place kick is made by kicking the ball after it has been placed on the groundand held by a Team A player, who shall be considered offside with reference to theposition of the ball.

On a kickoff, the ball may be held, placed on the ground or placed on a tee, providedthat the lowest part of the ball shall be raised not more than three inches above theplaying surface.

On a eld goal or convert attempt, a kicking tee may be used provided that the ballshall be raised not more than one inch above the playing surface.

Article 4 PuntA punt is made by letting the ball fall from the hands and kicking it with the foot beforeit touches the ground.

Article 5 Dribbled BallA dribbled ball occurs when the ball is kicked while not in possession or control ofa player, i.e. a loose ball following a fumble, a blocked kick, a kickoff or a kick fromscrimmage. Such a dribbled ball may be touched by the kicker or an onside playerwithout penalty.

If touched by an offside player:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at point ball touched, or option.

If touched by an offside player in the opponents Goal Area:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at its 25-yard line, or option.

If touched by an offside player in own Goal Area:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at 10-yard line, or option.

NOTE: If the touching by an offside player occurs on the last play of a half, theopponent may elect to extend the period for an additional play.

NOTE: A ball dribbled by Team A across the line of scrimmage does not interrupt thecontinuity of downs.

NOTE: A dribbled ball that strikes a goal post shall remain in play.

RULE 5 - KICKING


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Article 6 Onside & OffsideAn onside player is a member of the kickers team who is behind the ball at theinstant it is kicked towards the opponents Dead Line.An offside player is a member of the kickers team who is not onside.

An offside player becomes an onside player when the ball, after being kickedtowards the opponents Dead Line, touches or is touched by an opponent, the kickeror another onside player.

EXCEPTION: On a kick from scrimmage, if a Team B player touches the ball before itcrosses the line of scrimmage, such touching does not put an offside player of TeamA onside.

Article 7 Application Of PenaltiesUnder this Rule 5, the penalty for any infraction that occurs after the ball has beenkicked and before possession has been gained by the receiving team shall be appliedas follows: (a) Foul by kicking team (Other than No Yards to kick receiver or failure to kickoff10 yards): at point of last scrimmage, or point of kickoff, or point of actual kick on anopen-eld kick, as the case may be. If the open-eld kick originates in the Goal Area,the penalty shall be applied at the 10-yard line. (b) Foul by receiving team (Other than Contacting the Kicker or Illegal Blocking

of the kicker or an onside player.): at point receiving team gains possession or isentitled to possession. If the possession was gained in the Goal Area, the penaltyshall be applied from the receiving teams 10-yard line.

SECTION 2 KICKOFFArticle 1 Points Of KickoffThe ball shall be kicked off by a place kick from any point between the hash markson Team As: (a) 35-yard line at the start of the game, or any half, or after a touchdown. (b) 35-yard line after a score of three points by the kicking team, or the teamscored against may elect to put the ball in play by kickoff or scrimmage from its own35-yard line. (c) 35-yard line after a score of two points against the kicking team or the scoringteam may elect to put the ball in play by kickoff or scrimmage from its own 35-yard

line.

Article 2 Legal Kickoff (a) The ball, unless touched by an opponent, must be kicked more than 10 yardstowards the opponents Goal Line before it may be legally touched by a member ofTeam A.

PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated or Team B may take possession at the point the ballwas rst touched by Team A or option.

(b) The ball, unless touched, shall not go Out of Bounds in the Field of Play.

PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated; or Team B may take possession either 30 yardsin advance of where the ball was kicked or at the point where the ball went out of

bounds.

(c) Should the ball be kicked Out of Bounds in the receiving teams Goal Areawithout being touched by a player of either team, there shall be no penalty and theball shall next be put in play by the receiving team at its 25-yard line.

(d) Should the kicked ball strike the goal post assembly in ight, it shall be declareddead immediately and awarded to the receiving team at its 25-yard line.

(e) If the kicked ball is simultaneously recovered by players of both teams or is

simultaneously touched by players of both teams before going Out of Bounds, thekickoff shall be repeated.

Article 3 Offside On Kickoff - Team AAt the instant the ball is kicked off, no player of the kicking team shall be in advanceof the ball except the player who may be holding the ball for such kickoff.

PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated, or option.

Article 4 Offside On Kickoff - Team BPlayers of the receiving team must stand at least 10 yards on their own side of theline of kickoff when the ball is kicked.

PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated, or option.

Article 5 Interference By Team BOn a kickoff, a player of the receiving team may interfere with an opponent anywherewithin bounds, commencing from the moment the ball is kicked, provided that contactis made only above the waist of the opponent.

PENALTY: L10 PBH or PPG

Article 6 Interference By Team A (a) Before gaining possession: A player of the kicking team shall not be permittedto interfere with an opponent who is attempting to play or recover the ball until thatteam has gained possession.

PENALTY: L10 kickoff repeated, or option

(b) After gaining possession: If a player of the kicking team recovers the ball onthe kickoff, that team may then interfere with opponents anywhere within bounds,provided that contact is made only above the waist of the opponent.

PENALTY: L10 PBH

Article 7 Gaining Possession On A KickoffOn a kickoff, a player who catches the ball must come down in bounds to gainpossession. If the player was the last to touch the ball, either he or the ball mustcome down in bounds for possession to be awarded.


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SECTION 3 BLOCKED KICKArticle 1 DenitionA blocked kick is a kick from scrimmage in which, after being kicked, the ball isprevented from crossing the line of scrimmage because of contact with an opponentor a player of the kicking team who is offside.

It is not a blocked kick if, on a kick from scrimmage, the ball is touched by or touchesan opponent or a player of the kicking team who is offside and then crosses the lineof scrimmage. Such touching of the ball shall be disregarded.

If the kicked ball, after being touched prior to crossing the line of scrimmage, shouldstri

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